The plant for June is Celtis palilda (Desert Hackberry or Granjeno) and Celtis reticulata

The C. pallida grows along the highways of Cochise county. It grows as a large bush or small tree. Deciduous in the winter, its angular branches create an interesting effect.

As a wind break or a small garden tree, it is hard to find one more tenacious. It has a deep root system that not only helps it to be drought tolerant but also makes it difficult to blow over. Along with the deep root system there aren't any surface roots; therefore, it can be planted next to streets or sidewalks without fear of buckling.

The C. reticulata has the same wonderful deep root system as the C. pallida but it makes a much better shade tree. It grows to 30 feet high and wide, while the C. pallida grows only to 18 feet. Both tolerate hot dry summer winds that often take their toll on other trees at this time of year. They like the alkaline soil so common to this area. They do best when planted from one gallon size containers; their deep rooting tendencies make larger containers not such a good idea.

If you need a good deciduous shade tree that won't need a lot of attention, try one of these Hackberrys.